Outside Rochester Is A Quaint New York Suburb Along The Erie Canal With Trails And Small-Town Charm

A charming suburb along the Erie Canal, upstate New York's calm 524-mile canal waterway, Pittsford is a relaxing spot to see fall foliage and take leisurely walks on trails along the canals. In western New York, just 15 minutes from Rochester – a city that has reinvented its walkable downtown – Pittsford is really just a small village of about 1,700 people that balances small-town charm with easy access to urban life.

With a history that dates back to 1789, the village of Pittsford served as a trading center. When the Erie Canal opened in 1822, locals prospered from the canal-related commerce and construction. Today, Federal-style buildings remain as a reminder of those days of wealth. Part of Pittsford's modern charm comes from the former warehouses and silos that line the canal, many of which have been reimagined as quaint boutiques and restaurants. Despite growth in the area, locals have worked diligently to preserve the historic architecture that defines the village.

About 30 minutes by car from the Finger Lakes – a region known for its award-winning wines and culinary charm – Pittsford is a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path destination. The trails along the canal are a highlight, with 50 miles running through the town. Whether you go for a stroll, hike, or bike, the path takes you back in time, before industrialization, when life moved at a slower pace. Fall is especially rewarding, with spectacular foliage adding another layer of charm. To get to Pittsford, the closest international hub is Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), an easy 20-minute drive away.

For hikers, bikers, and walkers, Pittsford is a dream destination. The sheer amount of public pathways (over 90 miles worth) leaves plenty of options for historical and leisurely strolls. Trails account for 50 of those 90 miles, and many amble along the Erie Canal. To start off easy, try the Pittsford Frog Pond Trail. The simple, one-mile loop is a nice way to start out with a morning walk. Passing along the shore of the canal, the largely flat trail also goes through the Erie Canal Nature Preserve, where you can explore the 20 acres of preserved wetlands and meadows.

Another easy morning walk is the Isaac Gordon Nature Trail. Clocking in at just one mile, the loop takes (on average) 20 minutes, but can take up to an hour if you take your time to birdwatch and explore the flora and fauna. It's also considered to be quite easy, according to All Trails. There's a lovely observation deck that serves as a great spot to take a break, watch the birds, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the park.

Also easy, but much longer and favored for fall foliage, the Pittsford to Fairport trail begins at Schoen Place and goes along the Erie Canal to Fairport. This 13.6-mile trail can take up to five hours, depending on your pace. Pro-tip: Take time to peruse the canal-front businesses and stop for a coffee to give you a little boost for the remainder of the trail. Part of the Erie Canalway Trail (and the even larger 750-mile Empire State Trail), this stretch along the canal is relaxed and flat, with a mix of pavement and packed gravel. Reviewers enjoy the trail, but do caution that large swaths of the trail lack shade, so plan accordingly with sunscreen and hats.

Beyond walking the trails and taking in the historic charm of Pittsford, there are several unique boutiques and studios where you can indulge in wellness and relaxation. Among the shops, Abode is a home goods store offering carefully curated, eclectic modern style pieces. It is based along the canal in Pittsford. Cleo + Kin, a woman-owned boutique lifestyle shop rooted in sustainability, carries only vegan products. Owner Brenna says her philosophy is that her business should reflect her values. The shop offers everything from clothing to home goods and wellness gifts. Pittsford Fine Art is a locally owned art gallery that features the art of some of the region's best artists. Each of the artists is a working member of the gallery, so patrons usually have a good chance of meeting and connecting with the artist directly.

Neutral Ground Coffeehouse is a study in community collaboration. The name encapsulates the essence of the business — a place where everyone is equal and can come together on neutral ground. Village Bakery & Cafe takes as much pride in what they use, as much as in what they don't use. Their menu offers a range of tempting options, all of which are made from the freshest, local ingredients possible.

Since the early 1800s, the farm that is now Pittsford Farms Dairy has changed hands among multiple families. To this day, however, the commitment to "low and slow" dairy remains, meaning that all of the dairy is slow vat pasteurized, lending itself to a sweeter, creamier natural flavor that can be enjoyed across all of the homemade ice cream products. For a sweet treat alternative, head to Dolce Cupcakery, where you'll be spoiled for choice. Try the decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss cupcake or opt for a gluten-free version that is equally tempting.